C Band Registration Is Key, Westwood One Says

Add Westwood One to the list of major radio organizations urging stations to register their C Band downlinks. It says failing to do so could put all of a station's satellite programming at risk.

It also noted that the registration process does require a $435 filing fee, but that the normal additional requirement for a frequency coordination study has been waived, saving considerable expense.

The big audio network issued a statement calling on major commercial broadcast radio stations to register existing downlinks with the FCC before the commission evaluates the 3.7-4.2 GHz C Band for adding mobile broadband data services. "These potential additional services could create insurmountable interference to programming stations receive by satellite," Westwood One wrote.

A current window gives users the chance to register by July 18. Westwood One says the FCC believes that if you do not register your downlink during this window, you will not need interference protection in future.

“In our history, we have never had to license and/or register C Band downlinks,’ stated SVP Technology and Operations Eric Wiler in the announcement.

“Yet with the extensive use of mobile devices, Wifi and other data services, there is a constant need for radio spectrum and the government is considering all possible options. All C Band Radio, Television and Data services on every satellite are at risk. Registration is key to helping the FCC appreciate the universe of existing downlinks and potential outcomes of expansion. Westwood One has been working with other networks and satellite vendors to attempt to resolve this situation.”